Girl reports abduction attempt on walk to school

EVERETT — Police are investigating a report by an Everett High School student who says someone tried to abduct her on her way to class Monday morning.

The girl told police she was walking to class around 8:05 a.m. near the 2300 block of Wetmore Avenue when a man stopped his car next to her and asked her if she wanted a ride, Everett police officer Aaron Snell said.

She told police she said “No thanks” and continued walking.

A few seconds later, the student reported feeling someone grab her arm and realized the same man was pulling her toward his vehicle, Snell said. The girl told police that she struggled and pulled free and then ran to school and immediately reported the incident.

Officers searched the area but didn’t find anyone matching the description the girl provided.

She said the man who grabbed her was black, in his 20s, about 6 feet tall, heavy set and moustached. The girl said he was wearing a plaid shirt and driving an older tan four-door sedan.

The student was not physically injured, Snell said.

The Everett School District sent an email letter to parents Monday morning that described the incident. The district also provided several safety tips.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or the Everett Police Department tip line at 425-257-8450.

The school district said students always should tell family members where they are going and when they expect to arrive. They also should walk or ride bikes in pairs or groups and never hesitate about asking a responsible adult for help.

District officials also urge students to be alert of their surroundings and to not wear headphones or to text while walking.